Washington Medical Coverage: Other Programs
Basic Health
Who is eligible?
This coverage is for Washington state residents with income under 200% FPL who do not get Medicare. There is no citizenship requirement. As of summer 2009 enrollment is closed and there is a waiting list of over 60,000 individuals due to budget cuts.
What does the program cover?
- People must pay premiums that are subsidized based upon income. In addition, co-payments are required for some services. There is also an annual deductible.
- Enrollment is limited, and there is currently a waiting list.
- BH covers basic medical services, including limited mental health but not most therapy, rehabilitation, and no dental or vision
- There is a 9-month pre-existing condition waiting period in the BH
For more information, call 1-800-826-2444 or visit the BH web site.
Hospital Charity Care
Who is eligible?
Washington law requires hospitals to have a Charity Care Program. Under the program, hospitals must offer people with incomes under 100% FPL free care. People between 100% and 200% FPL must be offered some reduction on hospital charges. Hospitals have the option of offering Charity Care to people with incomes above 200% FPL and some have adopted policies exceeding this limit. Charity Care covered expenses can be considered incurred expenses towards meeting a spend down. If you are working with an individual who is getting bills from a hospital, you can write a letter to the Hospital asking that the person be considered for the Charity Care program. More information on Charity Care is at “Charity Care’: Medical Coverage for Hospital-Based Medical Services.”